Average Salaries in San Francisco, CA
Explore salary data for all occupations in the San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley metropolitan area.
Average Salary
$112,684
across all occupations
Highest Paying Job
$332,163
Physician
Occupations Covered
80
jobs with salary data
Cost of Living: San Francisco, CA has a cost of living that is 69.3% above the national average. Consider this when comparing salaries.
Salaries in San Francisco, CA by Occupation
About Working in San Francisco, CA
The San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley metropolitan area is the heart of Silicon Valley and the global epicenter of technology and innovation. Known for its stunning natural beauty, progressive culture, and concentration of tech giants and startups, the Bay Area offers exceptional salaries, particularly in technology, but also faces significant cost of living challenges.
Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the average salary across all occupations in San Francisco, CA is $112,684 per year. Salaries range from $44,346 for Childcare Workers to $332,163 for Physicians. The metropolitan area employs approximately 64,903 workers across the 80 occupations we track.
San Francisco, CA Economy Overview
San Francisco's economy is dominated by the technology sector, with headquarters and operations for companies like Salesforce, Twitter, and countless venture-backed startups. The area is also strong in finance, biotechnology, healthcare, and professional services. The concentration of venture capital makes it the premier destination for entrepreneurs and tech talent.
Major Industries in San Francisco, CA
The San Francisco, CA job market is driven by these key industries:
Cost of Living Considerations
San Francisco has one of the highest costs of living in the country, driven primarily by extreme housing costs. Rent and home prices are among the highest in the nation. While tech salaries are generous, many workers find that housing costs consume a significant portion of their income. Commuting from more affordable areas is common but time-consuming.
Cost of Living Index: 169.3(69.3% above national average)
Job Market Insights
The Bay Area tech job market remains strong despite periodic layoffs and market corrections. Competition for top talent is intense, and companies offer competitive packages including equity compensation. Technical skills in software engineering, data science, and AI are particularly valued. The startup ecosystem provides opportunities for risk-tolerant professionals.
Quality of Life in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco offers natural beauty including proximity to beaches, mountains, and wine country. The mild climate, diverse food scene, and progressive culture attract many. However, issues like homelessness, traffic congestion, and the high cost of living present challenges. Work-life balance can be difficult given the demanding tech culture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salaries in San Francisco, CA
What is the average salary in San Francisco, CA?
The average salary across all occupations in San Francisco, CA is approximately $112,684 per year. However, salaries vary significantly by occupation, experience level, and industry.
What are the highest paying jobs in San Francisco, CA?
The highest paying occupation in San Francisco, CA based on our data is Physician with an average salary of $332,163 per year. Other high-paying occupations can be found in the salary table above.
How does the cost of living affect salaries in San Francisco, CA?
With a cost of living 69.3% above the national average, salaries in San Francisco, CA tend to be higher to compensate. However, it's important to consider your overall financial picture, including housing, transportation, and other expenses.
Is San Francisco, CA a good place to find a job?
San Francisco, CA offers diverse employment opportunities across multiple industries. With 64,903 workers employed across the occupations we track, the metropolitan area has a substantial job market. Your prospects will depend on your industry, skills, and experience level.